Dutch Salmon with the Gila Conservation Coalition says the Gila River is likely the last example of what a free flowing river looks like.

“When it rains hard it floods, when it doesn’t rain much it’s low water," Salmon explained. "It functions as a big natural process for fish and wildlife and birds. It’s pretty much in its natural state.”

Salmon said the proposal would include a pipeline and a canal in what is now a mostly untouched area frequented by fishermen and hikers.

The Gila River supports a $2.89 billion-dollar revenue from river-related recreation.

If the proposal is met by the state, 66-million-dollars from the Arizona Water Settlements Act will be available for use to create the dam.